Over 7,000 pets traveled by train from Pune in the last year: How to carry your pet in train; Rules and charges
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Traveling with pets from Pune has seen a significant uptick, with over 7,000 pets, including cats and dogs, making their journey via train from Pune Railway Station between January 2023 and February 2024, according to a report published by Indian Express.
Out of the total 7,159 pets that utilized the service, the majority were dogs, totaling 4,115. Cats accounted for 752 of the pets transported, while 603 goats and 1,689 chicks also made the journey. This diverse array of pets highlights the station’s accommodating nature for pet travel.
How to carry your pet in train: Rules and Charges
For those looking to travel with their pets, Pune railway station offers two primary methods. An official from the railways shared that pets could either travel alongside their owners in a cabin or coupe of a first-class AC coach or be placed in the brake van or luggage van. The brake van, specially equipped with pet boxes, does not allow owners to accompany their pets but provides a secure space for them during the journey. Despite the availability of cabins or coupes, most opt for the brake van due to its more affordable pricing.
Booking for pet travel cannot be done online and requires pet owners to visit the station’s parcel section in person. Here, they must present a vaccination certificate and a fitness certificate from a veterinary doctor. Those wishing to know more can call Railway Parcel Office at 9699746080.
The charges for transporting pets vary depending on the weight, train, and distance. A standard weight of 30 kg is set for pets in the brake van, with charges remaining the same regardless of the actual weight. For example, the approximate cost for transporting a dog from Pune to Delhi is Rs 800. Different rates apply for booking a cabin or coupe, and specific regulations are in place for transporting goats and chicks.
This pet travel initiative has not only facilitated the journey of thousands of pets but also generated significant revenue for the station, amounting to around Rs 13 lakh over the mentioned period.
